Energy transfer based enhanced red emission intensity from (Eu3+, Tb3+):LFBCd optical glasses

► The non-radiative energy transfer from Tb3+ (5D4) to Eu3+ (5D1) in the LFBCd glass matrix has been explained. ► Luminescence of Eu3+ attributed to 5D0→7FJ transitions were intensified by the incorporation of Tb3+ ion. ► Occurrence of energy transfer was confirmed from the presence of optical band of Tb3+ (5D4) in the excitation spectra. ► Due to energy transfer, lifetime of Eu3+ ion has been increased and this confirms Tb3+ acts as a sensitiser.